Description

Of the dozens of Model A body styles, few are as universally loved as this 1931 Model A Sports Coupe. Practical yet sporty, it combines the comfort of a closed car with the tidy proportions of a coupe, and throws in a rumble-seat just for good measure. This nicely finished example is ideally set up for tour duty, so isn't it time you discovered what a treat these honest little cars really are?The Sports Coupe offered a padded roof and landau irons that gave the impression of a folding top, but no, it's fixed in place, although the rear window curtain opens so you can talk to rumble seat passengers. Basic black was always a Henry Ford favorite, and the Model A arguably wears it every bit as well as the T and when combined with black fenders and straw-colored wheels, it has a very correct look. The restoration is a few years old now, but still looks good enough to generate lots of appreciative looks out on the road. Model As have the ideal combination of "old fashioned car" looks with just enough style, compliments of Edsel Ford, to make them an enduring favorite among collectors. This one also demonstrates excellent panel fit with a hood that snugs down tightly and brightly painted body moldings that line up properly from front to rear. A rear-mounted spare is a traditional look, although Model A experts will note that the one-piece bumper isn't quite correct. On the other hand, details like cowl lamps, dual side mirrors, and a spare tire cover really dress up the simple little A. Part of the coupe's appeal is the two-passenger sportiness and a cozy, weather-tight interior. The Model A is charming in its simplicity and offers quality materials and a feeling that you're getting more than you paid for. The seats are covered in durable, comfortable cloth that features wide pleats that look period-correct. The controls should look familiar to anyone who's driven a Model A, with a big steering wheel and a chrome instrument panel in the center carries the basics, including speedometer, ammeter, fuel gauge, and ignition switch. A three-speed gearbox requires double-clutching, but its action is light and easy once you get the hang of it, and it really is a talent that every car guy should perfect. In back, flip up the deck lid to find space for two in the black leatherette rumble seat, which can also double as storage for a week of touring.Ford's 200 cubic inch inline-four wasn't a powerhouse, but its calling card is torque. The little engine makes wonderful noises and pulls smartly from just about any speed and in any gear. It starts easily with just a few turns of the starter and you have control over the ignition timing and idle speed from behind the wheel, so it's easy to fine-tune on the fly. It still uses a correct distributor with flat copper spark leads, and that interesting exhaust manifold is an aftermarket accessory designed to supply heat to the interior like a radiator (there's a little access window on the firewall to let the heat in). Four-wheel brakes are mechanical, but don't let anyone tell you that you need to "upgrade" to hydraulics, because they work just fine in the lightweight A. And the original 19-inch welded wire wheels have been adorned with correctly-sized 4.75-5.00x19 wide whitewalls that add an upscale touch.Model As are wonderful little cars that make for the ideal starter hobby car. But you may find, like many collectors do, that you never quite outgrow the A and you'll always want to have one around. Call today!